Southampton manager Tonda Eckert hit with three FA charges after Spygate scandal

Tonda Eckert has been charged with three breaches of the FA’s rules relating to spying on opponents.

The Southampton manager’s alleged breaches relate to matches against Oxford United, Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough last season.

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Saints were disqualified from the Championship play-offs in May after their spying offences came to light.

An analyst intern was caught filming a Boro training session ahead of their first leg meeting at the Riverside Stadium.

The two further spying incidents later came to light, with the club also deducted four points for the coming season.

Eckert has been given seven days to respond to the FA charges.

However, talkSPORT understands he is unlikely to contest them.

Southampton statement

Responding to the charges in a statement, Southampton said: “Southampton Football Club and First Team Head Coach Tonda Eckert acknowledge today’s charges from The FA relating to a breach of Rule E3.1.

“Tonda and the club will continue to cooperate fully and openly with the FA.

“Our focus remains on preparations for the 2026/27 Championship season.

“The club remains fully supportive of Tonda and his staff as we work towards our ambition of returning to the Premier League.

“We are unable to comment further while the process remains ongoing, but we will provide an update to supporters as soon as we are in a position to do so.”

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Saints begin the new Championship season away to Watford on Sunday, August 16.

Eckert’s future

Eckert’s future had appeared to be in doubt following the Spygate scandal, with his side blocked from appearing in the play-off final.

Having beaten Boro 2-1 on aggregate, their opponents were reinstated before losing to Hull City at Wembley Stadium.

However, Southampton owner Dragan Solak later backed Eckert to continue in the role.

The 33-year-old has been in permanent charge since December following a five-match caretaker spell at St. Mary’s.

His current deal is due to run until the end of the 2026/27 season.

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Since being named as permanent manager, Eckert has won 21 of 35 matches in all competitions and suffered just five defeats.

As well as finishing fourth in the Championship last season, Saints also reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup.